Volunteering FAQ

Will volunteering affect my benefits? 

It is important to let your benefits adviser know if you have started to volunteer. There are varied rules for different benefits and the Citizen's Advice Bureau has comprehensive advice on this. 

Will I have to complete an application form? 

We ask all those interested in volunteering to complete an application form. 

I have a disability. Can I still volunteer?

Yes. The staff members at your chosen project will do their best to ensure you can volunteer the way you want to. If you have specific access needs, you can contact with the relevant office team and let them know about any reasonable adjustments you require.

What is the minimum age to volunteer for Family Lives?

You need to be over 18 to volunteer for Family Lives. If you are looking for school or college work experience, please get in touch with us. 

I am an asylum seeker. Can I volunteer?

Yes. Family Lives is a registered charity and asylum seekers, even if they have been refused asylum and are waiting to go home, are allowed to volunteer for charities. You can also claim out-of-pocket expenses.

I have a criminal record. Does that mean I can't volunteer?

That depends on what your criminal record is for. Each Family Lives project will look at volunteers individually, and make a decision based on the type of offence as per our DBS policy.